The Arkansas Farmers Market Association held its Annual Meeting on January 27th. This year the event took place during the Arkansas Grown Conference and Expo at the Embassy Suites in West Little Rock. On this page you'll find the presentations made by our guest speakers and experts. We were unable to video record our presenters, but their programs are outlined in the material below. If you have questions about any of the material we have added contact information for all of them. Our thanks to all who participated.
Jeff Jackson Arkansas Department of Health
Jeff Jackson of the Arkansas Department of Health discussed "Selling at Farmers Markets: Tips for Success". He outlines what can and can't be sold at markets. Plus, the requirements of the Food Freedom Act were also outlined. Jeff welcomes any questions about this topic through his email jeff.jackson@arkansas.gov.
Angela Gardner Arkansas Small Business and Technology Development Center
The Arkansas Small Business Development and Technology Center is an amazing free resource for state markets and growers. Angela Gardner outlined many of the services they offer and shared success stories. Please reach out to the ASBTDC to find out how you can benefit from their services at asbtdc.org
Shelly Smith Rogers Local Food Market
Shelly Smith is the Market Manager of the Rogers Local Food Market. She provided an in-depth look into how their market is building community support and a loyal customer base. Professional leadership, product diversity, accessibility, inclusivity, and advertising are all import pillars or growth. Shelly is a passionate supporter of farmers markets and would welcome questions at rogerslocalfoodmarket@gmail.com
Lisa Roach MarketLink
MarketLink can help state farmers markets with SNAP retail applications. The also can help SNAP retailers with equipment and training. Lisa Roach showed how their service works and detailed the application process. She is happy to take questions at lisa@marketlink.org
Jeremy Adams Program Manager Double Up Food Bucks
Jeremy Adams is our Double Up Food Bucks Program Manager. Although, he wasn't able to attend the Annual Meeting in person he recorded this presentation on the state of the program. He also answers many of the questions markets managers have about getting started and running DUFBs successfully. You can contact Jeremy at jeremy.adams@arkansasobesity.org
